We Are Officially 50!
As PKT celebrates its 50th Anniversary in 2024, we reflect on our core business which underpins PKT Logistics success, symbolised by a magnificent Gold truck integrated with the number 50, signifying PKT’s 5-decades of excellence in the logistics industry.
message from the Top
As we celebrate our Golden Jubilee, it is imperative to note that our journey over the 5 decades has been truly remarkable for us as we transformed from humble beginnings to being a leading logistics company with a strong focus on CSR in Education.
We are immensely grateful for the trust and support we have received from our stakeholders – business partners, customers, government agencies, academia and our 2,000-strong employees.
We pledge to continuously focus on our mission of being a socially responsible company, leading in sustainability and ESG at the forefront while upholding the spirit of our 5H Culture, excellence and innovation in all that we pursue.
As a World-Class company, we are poised to inspire other businesses and communities through our meaningful activities and are confident to achieve our Wawasan 3B!
Thank you for joining us on this journey. Here’s to the next 50 years, together!
Dato’ Seri (Dr.) Michael Tio
Group CE & MD of PKT Logistics Group
message from business partners
“CSR is not about how you spend your profits, it’s about how responsible you make your profits.”
PKT50: Our CSR Achievements
ABIB (Anak Belajar Ibu Bekerja) is an award-winning CSR program offered by PKT. This programme is aimed at giving job opportunities to mothers who live in the villages surrounding our facility. PKT provides these mothers training in various relevant areas to enhance their skills.
They are given the option to work from 8.30am to 12.30pm or from 1.30pm to 5.30pm so they can increase their household income without disrupting their maternal or domestic duties.
JBSB (Jom Bekerja Sambil Belajar) is a programme by PKT which gives Peninsula College students the opportunity to earn side income while working part-time at PKT’s various departments to gain relevant experience in the field and gain practical industry experience that helps bridge the gap between theory and practice.
Smart Trucker is a 36 months on-the-road programme that enables graduates to earn monthly earnings of RM4,000 to RM6,000 as professional trucker. At the end of the duration, the graduates would be promoted to executive/senior executive position – with expected salary of RM3,000 to RM3,500.
PKT50: Enthusiastic Talents Making a Difference
Our passionate team brings energy and innovation to every project, driving success and making a positive impact daily. Celebrate the talents that shape our future!
Mr. Balakrishnan
Senior Director, Customs Brokerage & Trade Compliance,
PKT Logistics Group Sdn Bhd
From Office Boy to Night Watchman
Mr. Balakrishnan’s journey with PKT Logistics Group began on December 5, 1977, as an Office Boy. His duties included maintaining office cleanliness, dispatching and collecting documents, and even serving as a night watchman. This humble start laid the foundation for his remarkable career.
Transition to Loading Clerk
In 1978, Mr. Balakrishnan transitioned to the role of Loading Clerk, managing the delivery of LCL (Less than Container Load) and Breakbulk goods from the port. This was his first step up the ladder.
Becoming an Examination Clerk
By 1979, he became an Examination Clerk, assisting with customs inspections, a role he held until 1981.
Diverse Operational Roles (1981-1985)
From 1981 to 1985, Mr. Balakrishnan took on various general operations roles, gaining experience in different areas such as ICD Sg. Way, Subang Airport, Brickfield Railway Cargo, Dayabumi Parcel Post, Port Operations, and CBU clearance.
Promotion to Customs Clerk
In 1986, he was promoted to Customs Clerk, overseeing export operations and documentation until 1988.
Chief Clerk Appointment
Mr. Balakrishnan’s leadership qualities were recognised in 1988 when he was promoted to Chief Clerk, assisting Dato Tio in overseeing import, export, and transport operations until 1994.
Operations Manager
His journey continued as he became Operations Manager from 1994 to 1998, eventually becoming Head of Import and Export Operations.
General Manager of the Customs Brokerage Department
In 1998, Mr. Balakrishnan was appointed General Manager of the Customs Brokerage Department, managing all customs documents and regulations for Port Klang and KLIA until 2013.
Director of the Customs Brokerage Department
His stellar performance led to his promotion to Director in 2014, a position he held until 2017, overseeing the Customs Brokerage Department.
Director of Trade Compliance and Customs Brokerage
From 2018 to 2023, he served as Director of Trade Compliance and Customs Brokerage, ensuring the company’s adherence to trade regulations.
Career Growth Opportunities
Mr. Balakrishnan credits the opportunity for career growth as a significant factor in his long and dedicated service at PKT Logistics Group.
Company’s Progressive Growth
The progressive growth of PKT Logistics Group kept him motivated, as he witnessed the company’s expansion and success.
Professional Development
Professional development opportunities helped him stay engaged and proficient, with the company supporting his personal education.
Inspirational Leadership
The guidance and motivation from leaders like Dato Tio and DSMT provided the inspiration needed throughout his career.
Living in the Office
Living in the office created a unique and close-knit work environment, making the work and live environment particularly memorable.
Significant Projects
- Karak Highway Project (1978-1980)
A significant infrastructure project marking his early career. - Panasonic Shah Alam Strong Room Construction (1980)
Showcased his ability to handle critical tasks. - Federal Highway Project (1980-1981)
Involved in Phase 2 from Guinness to Jalan 222 flyover.
Handling British Car Spare Parts
Handled the clearance of spare parts for brands like Daimler, Jaguar, Leyland, and Rolls Royce from 1978 to 1983 for Wearne Brothers and Far East Motors.
Daring Task with Rolls Royce
One particularly memorable task involved driving a Rolls Royce onto the upper deck of the vessel “MV Chidambaram” for shipment to Sai Baba in India, all without a driving license.
Mr. Balakrishnan’s story is a testament to his dedication, adaptability, and leadership. His remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to all employees at PKT Logistics Group, embodying the values and spirit of the company.
Starting as a General Clerk
In 1978, Mr. Tan Seng Soon began his career with Port Klang Trading & Forwarding Agency, now known as PKT Logistics, as a general clerk. His responsibilities included customs clearance, customs examination, and loading. His dedication led to a promotion to lead the Export Department after three years.
A Brief Departure
Mr. Tan left the company in 1983, only to return in 1995 by coincidence, marking the start of a transformative journey with PKT Logistics.
Rejoining PKT Logistics
In late 1995, Mr. Tan visited PKT to inquire about purchasing a used import car for a customer. During this visit, he met DSMT, who had just returned to manage the company. Remembering Mr. Tan from earlier days, DSMT asked him to join PKT to help rebuild the company.
Commitment to Growth
Without hesitation and without negotiating his pay, Mr. Tan agreed, driven by a commitment to contribute to PKT’s growth. His focus was on bringing in as many customers as possible to enhance PKT’s business.
Showcasing PKT’s Capabilities
Mr. Tan brought in project shipments like The Cleveland Bridge in 1998, which showcased PKT’s complete logistics capabilities. Another significant project was the Double Track Project from Rawang to Ipoh, awarded by their joint venture company UTOC.
Pivotal Automotive Business
In 2002, PKT secured the CKD (Complete Knock Down) business for both Hyundai and Kia, achieving a record high of 66,000 TEUs annually. These contracts marked a significant milestone for PKT’s automotive logistics services.
Rebranding to PKT Logistics Group
In 1996, DSMT decided to rebrand the company from Port Klang Trading & Forwarding Agency to PKT Logistics Group, reflecting a new image and pioneering the logistics industry in Port Klang.
Establishing Orisis Freight Logistics
From 1997 to 1998, Orisis Freight Logistics (M) Sdn Bhd was established as a Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC), centralising negotiations for ocean freight rates with shipping lines for import and export.
Managing Significant Projects
During the late 1990s and early 2000s, PKT managed several significant projects, including the Double Track Project and handling the CKD business for Hyundai and Kia. The company provided complete logistics solutions, including door-to-door services for vendor parts from Korea to Port Klang.
Expanding Automotive Logistics Services
From 2002 to 2004, PKT expanded its automotive logistics services to Hyundai, Kia, and Inokom. In subsequent years, partnerships with Changan, BMW, Mazda, Foton, Range Rover, Ford, Chana, and MG were established.
Building the Largest Logistics Company
Mr. Tan’s primary motivation has been his aim to build PKT into the largest logistics company in Port Klang. Working alongside DSMT, who had no prior knowledge of the forwarding business, fueled his dedication and commitment.
Memorable Projects
He recalls the Cleveland Bridge Steel Fabricator project and the Double Track Project as some of his most memorable. Other significant memories include the Manila Laguna Ancom Factory and the Hong Kong Power Station.
Transformation and Growth
When Mr. Tan first joined PKT in 1978, the company had only 13 staff members. Today, PKT boasts a workforce of 2,000 employees, marking a significant transformation and growth over the years.
Hopes for the Future
Mr. Tan hopes that PKT will continue to grow and eventually be listed on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia, reflecting its status as a leading logistics company. His story is a testament to his unwavering dedication and significant contributions to PKT Logistics.
Inspiring Journey
Mr. Tan’s journey is an inspiration to all, showcasing the impact of commitment, vision, and hard work.
Mr. Tan Seng Soon
Senior Director (Head of Freight Forwarding),
PKT Consolidation Services (M) Sdn Bhd
“Sustainability Through Education”
Yayasan PKT
During PKT’s 50th anniversary Gala Night on March 1, 2024, PKT reaffirmed its commitment to educational corporate social responsibility efforts through Yayasan PKT. They demonstrated this commitment by awarding RM2 million worth of scholarships to seven institutes of higher learning.
PKT50 Maritime night
Explore the enchanting moments captured during our PKT50 Gala Maritime Night on 1st March 2024, at OneWorld Hotel, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.
